Smullen steals show with Cork four-timer

The former champion concedes the title despite his run of success, while there are incredible scenes at Down Royal, writes Michael Clower

PAT SMULLEN made Cork racecourse his own yesterday when he dominated proceedings with a 199-1 four-timer on Marko Jadeo, Anna Frid, Noahs Ark and Simple Exchange, but he promptly admitted that his chance of winning the championship had gone.

“I’ve had four winners at a meeting only twice before, at Leopardstown two years ago and once in Dubai,” he said. “This has taken me to 73 winners for the season but I’m still 14 behind Mick Kinane so I’ve no chance of catching him.

“It would be crazy to even think I could do so. I’ve had a great season and now I’m looking forward to the trips abroad. I ride Vinnie Roe in the Arc, Refuse To Bend in the Breeders’ Cup and In Time’s Eye in the Melbourne Cup assuming he gets into the race.”